By Tammy Jewell
In 2000, the federal government allocated funds for organizations to start up Adult Day Service programs. At that time, Gerontology Network based in Grand Rapids was already providing services in Lenawee County, allowing them to be the initial supporting agency. Under the leadership of Gerontology Network and visionary members such as Myra Goddard and Tom MacNaughton, Daybreak Adult Day Services was able to welcome participants to a newly renovated space on U.S. 223 on March 9, 2001.
The intent of a day program was to provide caregivers an additional support system, while at the same time, providing purpose to each individual enrolled. By offering additional support, family caregivers could add leisure to their daily lives, lessening the challenges that are known to be associated with the role of caregiving.